Valencia ahead in Dos Santos race

Valencia could be pipped at the post by local rivals Villarreal in the race to sign Giovani dos Santos from Mallorca.

Dos Santos may opt for Valencia

Spanish sports daily Marca reported that Villarreal had initially intended to present Mexico international Dos Santos, along with former Mallorca team-mate Tomas Pina, last Friday but were unable to finalise personal terms in time.

Marca said that was because Valencia have entered the race for the forward's signature - and now appear to be his favoured destination.

If he moved to the Mestalla, he would link up with compatriot and El Tri teammate Andres Guardado in attack - believed to be a key factor in his thinking.

Dos Santos graduated from Barcelona's La Masia academy before joining the first team. He moved to Spurs but endured four frustrating seasons, making only ten Premier League appearances.

He went on loan to Ipswich, Galatasaray and Racing before signing for Mallorca, and is looking for a swift return to La Liga after their relegation.